Quick Navigation
Colorado’s forensic science field offers exciting career opportunities for those passionate about criminal justice and scientific investigation. With the state’s growing population and advancing technology in crime laboratories, forensic scientists in Colorado play a crucial role in solving crimes from Denver to Colorado Springs, Aurora to Fort Collins.
Key takeaway:
As of May 2023, forensic science technicians in Colorado earned a median salary of $77,670 (BLS data), with entry-level positions starting around $59,400. A bachelor’s degree in natural sciences plus specialized training is required for most positions. 2024,2025 figures are not yet available.
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) operates five state-of-the-art forensic laboratories serving all 64 counties. These facilities in Denver, Durango, Grand Junction, Pueblo, and Greeley process thousands of cases annually, creating consistent demand for qualified forensic science professionals.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate from Boulder considering your college options, a professional in Lakewood seeking a career change, or a military veteran transitioning to civilian work in Colorado Springs, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to launch your forensic science career in the Centennial State.
Colorado Education Requirements for Forensic Scientists
The path to becoming a forensic scientist in Colorado begins with a strong educational foundation in the natural sciences. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and local crime laboratories maintain specific academic standards that align with national accreditation requirements.
Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
Entry-level forensic scientist positions in Colorado require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The CBI specifically requires degrees in one of the following fields:
- Chemistry – The most common path, providing essential laboratory skills
- Biochemistry – Ideal for DNA analysis and toxicology specializations
- Biology – Critical for the examination of biological evidence examination
- Physics – Valuable for ballistics and accident reconstruction
- Forensic Science – Specialized programs combining multiple disciplines
Colorado forensic science programs must include specific coursework to meet professional standards. Core requirements typically encompass general chemistry (two semesters), organic chemistry (two semesters), analytical chemistry with instrumental analysis, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, statistics, and physics with laboratory components.
Advanced Degree Options
While a bachelor’s degree meets minimum requirements, many Colorado forensic scientists pursue graduate education to advance their careers. Master’s programs in forensic science, offered at institutions like the University of Colorado Denver, provide specialized training in advanced analytical techniques, research methods, and expert testimony preparation.
Graduate degrees become particularly important for laboratory management positions, specialized fields such as forensic anthropology, and roles that require court-qualified expertise. The additional education typically translates to higher starting salaries and faster career progression within Colorado’s forensic science community.
Top Forensic Science Schools in Colorado
Colorado offers several excellent pathways to forensic science education, from large research universities to specialized community college programs. Each institution provides unique advantages for aspiring forensic scientists.
Colorado State University (Fort Collins)
Colorado State University stands as the state’s premier institution for forensic science education. CSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a concentration in Criminalistics, specifically designed for students pursuing careers in forensic laboratories and law enforcement. This program combines rigorous chemistry coursework with specialized forensic applications.
The criminalistics concentration at CSU includes unique courses in trace evidence analysis, forensic DNA typing, courtroom testimony, and crime scene investigation techniques. Students gain hands-on experience in CSU’s modern analytical laboratories, using the same instrumentation found in professional crime labs. The program maintains strong connections with the CBI’s Northern Colorado Regional Forensic Laboratory in Greeley.
University of Colorado Denver
The University of Colorado Anschutz offers an MS in Modern Human Anatomy. Some students pursue forensic-focused research, but there is no formal “forensic track” listed. Students interested in forensic applications should verify current program offerings and research opportunities directly with the university.
CU Denver’s location in the state’s largest metropolitan area provides unparalleled internship opportunities with the Denver Police Crime Laboratory, the Denver Office of the Medical Examiner, and the CBI’s central forensic facility. Students benefit from proximity to real-world forensic investigations and networking opportunities with practicing professionals.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Metro State Denver offers a comprehensive Criminal Justice program with forensic science components. While not a dedicated forensic science degree, MSU Denver’s program includes courses in crime scene investigation, forensic psychology, and criminal evidence analysis. The university’s affordable tuition makes it an attractive option for Colorado residents.
The program emphasizes practical skills through partnerships with local law enforcement agencies. Students can participate in mock crime scene exercises at MSU Denver’s specialized training facilities and complete internships with area police departments.
Community College Pathways
Colorado’s community colleges offer cost-effective starting points for careers in forensic science. Red Rocks Community College in Lakewood provides an Associate of Science degree that transfers seamlessly to four-year institutions. Arapahoe Community College in Littleton offers criminal justice programs with forensic components.
These two-year programs enable students to fulfill their general education requirements and introductory science courses at a lower cost before transferring to complete specialized forensic science training. Many working professionals choose this pathway while maintaining employment.
Colorado Bureau of Investigation Requirements
The Colorado Bureau of Investigation sets the standard for forensic science employment in the state. Understanding CBI requirements helps aspiring forensic scientists prepare competitive applications for positions throughout Colorado’s criminal justice system.
Entry-Level Forensic Scientist Requirements
CBI forensic scientist positions require candidates to meet stringent qualifications. Beyond the bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, applicants must demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain chain-of-custody procedures. The selection process comprises multiple stages designed to identify candidates who are well-suited for the demanding nature of forensic work.
Laboratory experience proves essential for competitive applications. The CBI values candidates who have completed internships, undergraduate research projects, or work-study positions in analytical laboratories. Coursework must include substantial laboratory components, with hands-on experience using modern analytical instrumentation, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography, and microscopy techniques.
Background Investigation Process
All forensic scientist positions with the CBI and local Colorado crime laboratories require extensive background investigations. The process includes criminal history checks at the local, state, and federal levels, verification of educational credentials, review of employment history, credit checks, and polygraph examinations in some cases.
Candidates must maintain a clean criminal record, demonstrate financial responsibility, and consistently exhibit ethical behavior in both their personal and professional lives. Drug use history receives particular scrutiny, as forensic scientists often testify in drug-related cases. The background investigation typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to complete.
Training and Probationary Period
Newly hired forensic scientists undergo comprehensive training programs that last between 6 and 12 months. The CBI’s training encompasses evidence handling procedures, quality assurance protocols, laboratory safety, courtroom testimony preparation, and specialized analytical techniques relevant to assigned disciplines.
During the probationary period, new scientists work under close supervision, gradually assuming independent casework responsibilities. Successful completion requires demonstrating technical proficiency, maintaining accurate documentation, and passing competency examinations. Many positions require obtaining court-qualification status before working independently on criminal cases.
2023 Forensic Science Salary Data for Colorado
Understanding salary expectations helps forensic science students and career changers make informed decisions about their professional futures. Colorado’s forensic scientists earn competitive salaries that reflect the specialization of their work and the state’s cost of living.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2023 data, Colorado employed about 410 forensic science technicians across state and local government agencies. These professionals earn salaries that vary based on experience, education, specialization, and geographic location within the state.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $59,400 | $28.56 | 10th Percentile |
| Early Career | $64,590 | $31.05 | 25th Percentile |
| Median | $77,670 | $37.34 | 50th PerceUSile |
| Experienced | $98,400 | $47.31 | 75th Percentile |
| Senior Level | $103,660 | $49.84 | 90th Percentile |
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Forensic Science Technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
Regional Salary Variations
Salaries for forensic scientists vary significantly across Colorado’s diverse regions. The Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area typically offers the highest salaries, reflecting both the higher cost of living and the concentration of state and federal crime laboratories in the region. Entry-level positions in the Denver metro often start 5-10% above the state’s median wage.
Colorado Springs, as the state’s second-largest city, offers competitive salaries with a lower cost of living than Denver. The presence of military installations creates additional opportunities for forensic work with federal agencies. Fort Collins and Boulder, home to major universities, provide opportunities in both public and private sector forensic laboratories.
Rural areas of Colorado, while offering lower absolute salaries, often provide better purchasing power due to reduced living costs. Forensic scientists working in Western Slope communities, such as Grand Junction, or in mountain regions near Durango, may find that their salaries stretch further despite lower nominal amounts.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence forensic scientists’ salaries beyond geographic location. Advanced degrees typically command salary premiums of 10-15%, with master’s degree holders starting at higher pay grades. Specialized certifications from professional organizations, such as the American Board of Criminalistics, can increase earning potential by 5-10%.
Experience in specific forensic disciplines affects compensation. DNA analysts and digital forensics experts often earn premium salaries due to high demand and specialized skills. Forensic scientists qualified to provide expert testimony in court may receive additional compensation for trial preparation and appearances.
Career Path and Timeline
Understanding the typical career progression helps aspiring forensic scientists set realistic expectations and plan their professional development. The journey from student to senior forensic scientist follows a predictable timeline with specific milestones.
Years 1-4: Education Foundation
The first four years focus on obtaining a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences. During this time, students should pursue laboratory experience through internships, work-study programs, or volunteer positions. Participating in undergraduate research projects demonstrates initiative and provides valuable hands-on experience with analytical techniques.
Summer internships with crime laboratories prove particularly valuable. The CBI and Denver Police Crime Laboratory offer limited internship positions for qualified juniors and seniors. These competitive programs provide direct exposure to forensic casework, enabling students to confirm their career interests.
Years 5-6: Entry-Level Position and Training
After graduation, new forensic scientists typically spend 6 to 12 months in intensive training programs. This period includes classroom instruction, supervised casework, and competency testing. Trainees learn specific procedures for their assigned disciplines while developing proficiency with laboratory instrumentation.
The first year of employment focuses on building fundamental skills and establishing credibility. New scientists work on simple cases under supervision, gradually progressing to more complex analyses. Court testimony typically begins after achieving qualification status, usually 12-18 months into employment.
Years 7-10: Professional Development
Mid-career forensic scientists assume greater responsibilities, including training new employees, developing procedures, and handling complex cases. Many pursue advanced certifications through professional organizations during this period. Some individuals return to school to pursue graduate degrees, aiming to advance into supervisory or specialized positions.
Professional networking becomes increasingly essential. Active participation in organizations like the Colorado Division of the International Association for Identification and the Mountain-Desert Forensic Association creates advancement opportunities and keeps scientists current with field developments.
Years 10+: Senior Roles and Specialization
Senior forensic scientists often specialize in specific types of evidence or specialized analytical techniques. They may become technical leaders, laboratory supervisors, or quality assurance managers. Some transition to teaching roles at colleges and universities or become private consultants.
Career advancement may involve relocating between laboratories to pursue opportunities for promotion. Senior scientists frequently serve as expert witnesses in high-profile cases and contribute to the development of professional standards at the state and national levels.
Certification and Licensing in Colorado
While Colorado doesn’t require specific licenses for forensic scientists, professional certifications significantly enhance career prospects and credibility. Understanding available certifications helps forensic scientists plan their professional development and meet the expectations of their employers.
American Board of Criminalistics Certification
The American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) offers the most widely recognized certifications for forensic scientists. The Comprehensive Criminalistics Examination serves as an entry-level certification, testing knowledge across multiple forensic disciplines. Passing this examination demonstrates professional competency and commitment to the field.
Specialty certifications in areas such as drug analysis, fire debris analysis, and molecular biology require additional experience and specialized examinations. Colorado employers increasingly prefer certified candidates, with some positions requiring certification within specified timeframes after hiring. The CBI supports employees pursuing ABC certification by providing study materials and reimbursing examination fees.
Discipline-Specific Certifications
Forensic scientists specializing in particular disciplines should pursue relevant certifications. DNA analysts benefit from Technical Leader qualifications under FBI Quality Assurance Standards. Digital forensics examiners pursue certifications like the Certified Computer Examiner or AccessData Certified Examiner credentials.
Firearms examiners seek certification through the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners. Forensic toxicologists pursue board certification through the American Board of Forensic Toxicology. These specialized credentials often translate to higher salaries and expanded career opportunities.
Continuing Education Requirements
Continuing education is strongly encouraged, with many forensic scientists pursuing approximately 40 hours of professional training annually, although this is not mandated by Colorado law. Training opportunities include professional conferences, workshops, webinars, and academic courses.
The CBI offers internal training programs that cover new techniques, updates on instrumentation, and developments in the law. Professional organizations offer specialized workshops on emerging technologies and methodologies. Many forensic scientists pursue graduate coursework to stay current with the latest developments in their specialties.
Job Outlook and Opportunities in Colorado
Colorado’s forensic science job market reflects both state-specific factors and national trends. Understanding employment prospects helps aspiring forensic scientists make informed decisions about their career investments.
Current Employment Landscape
Colorado’s approximately 410 forensic science technician positions represent steady employment in a specialized field. The state’s growing population, particularly in Front Range communities, drives demand for forensic services. Urban growth in Denver, Aurora, and Colorado Springs creates additional positions in municipal crime laboratories.
Competition for positions remains strong, with multiple qualified candidates applying for each opening. Success requires not only meeting minimum qualifications but distinguishing yourself through relevant experience, strong academic performance, and professional presentation. Networking within Colorado’s forensic science community proves invaluable for learning about opportunities.
Emerging Opportunities
Digital forensics is one of the fastest-growing forensic fields nationally and is in increasing demand in Colorado. The state’s technology sector, concentrated in Denver and Boulder, creates demand for experts in cybercrime investigation. Private sector opportunities exist with consulting firms, law firms, and technology companies requiring digital evidence expertise.
Cannabis legalization in Colorado created unique forensic challenges requiring specialized testing and analysis. Forensic scientists with expertise in marijuana analysis find opportunities in both public crime laboratories and private testing facilities serving the legal cannabis industry.
Federal Employment Options
Colorado’s federal presence offers additional opportunities in forensic science beyond state and local positions. The FBI maintains a Denver field office requiring forensic support. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service employ forensic specialists in Colorado.
Military installations, including Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, and Buckley Space Force Base, employ civilian forensic scientists. These positions often offer higher salaries and comprehensive federal benefits packages. Security clearance requirements may limit applicant pools, creating opportunities for qualified candidates.
Forensic Science Specializations Available in Colorado
Colorado’s diverse forensic landscape offers opportunities across multiple specializations. Understanding different career paths helps students focus their education and training toward specific interests.
DNA Analysis
DNA analysis remains one of the most sought-after forensic specializations in Colorado. The state’s crime laboratories process thousands of DNA samples annually from sexual assault cases, homicides, and property crimes. DNA analysts must complete specialized training in molecular biology techniques and maintain proficiency in rapidly evolving technologies.
The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) connects Colorado’s DNA databases with national resources, facilitating the solution of cases across jurisdictions. DNA analysts working with CODIS must meet FBI Quality Assurance Standards and complete ongoing proficiency testing to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their work. Career advancement often leads to Technical Leader positions overseeing laboratory DNA sections.
Drug Chemistry
Drug chemistry represents the highest-volume discipline in most Colorado forensic laboratories. Analysts identify controlled substances from seized evidence using techniques including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and microscopic examination. Colorado’s ongoing opioid crisis and marijuana legalization complexities create consistent demand for drug chemists.
Successful drug chemists must stay current with emerging synthetic drugs and novel psychoactive substances. The work requires meticulous attention to detail, as analytical results directly impact criminal charges and sentencing. Many drug chemists frequently testify in court, making communication skills essential for career success.
Firearms and Toolmarks
Firearms examiners analyze weapons, ammunition, and toolmark evidence from violent crimes. Colorado’s diverse geography, ranging from urban Denver to rural mountain communities, creates a variety of firearms cases that require specialized expertise. Examiners must understand ballistics, microscopy, and the reconstruction of shooting incidents.
The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) connects Colorado firearms evidence with cases nationwide. Firearms examiners working with NIBIN help identify crime guns and link shooting incidents across jurisdictions. This specialization offers excellent career stability and advancement opportunities.
Digital Forensics
Digital forensics has become indispensable in modern criminal investigations. Colorado’s technology-driven economy creates particular demand for digital evidence experts. These specialists recover and analyze data from computers, smartphones, and electronic devices in cases ranging from fraud to child exploitation.
Digital forensics requires continuous learning as technology evolves rapidly. Specialists must be familiar with multiple operating systems, various encryption methods, and data recovery techniques. Private sector opportunities often offer higher salaries than government positions, though public service provides unique investigative challenges and job security.
Trace Evidence
Trace evidence analysts examine microscopic materials, including fibers, glass, paint, and soil, to identify and analyze them. This discipline requires patience, attention to detail, and expertise with various microscopy techniques. Colorado’s trace evidence examiners often work the state’s most complex cases, providing crucial links between suspects, victims, and crime scenes.
The work combines traditional microscopy with modern analytical techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence. Trace evidence analysts must maintain broad knowledge across multiple material types and manufacturing processes. The specialization offers intellectual challenges and variety, though positions are limited compared to other disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree is required to become a forensic scientist in Colorado?
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, physics, or forensic science from an accredited institution is required for entry-level positions in these fields. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation specifically requires natural science degrees with substantial laboratory coursework. Some positions may accept closely related degrees with appropriate coursework in analytical chemistry and instrumental analysis.
How long does it take to become a forensic scientist in Colorado?
The typical timeline is 4-5 years: four years for a bachelor’s degree, followed by 6-12 months of on-the-job training after hiring. Some students take longer if they pursue internships or work part-time during school. Adding a master’s degree extends the timeline by 2 years but can accelerate career advancement.
Do I need to attend a school in Colorado to be eligible to work in the state?
No, you can attend any accredited institution nationwide. However, attending school in Colorado offers advantages, including internship opportunities with state crime laboratories, networking with local professionals, and familiarity with Colorado’s legal system. Out-of-state graduates should research Colorado-specific requirements before applying to ensure a seamless process.
What’s the job outlook for forensic scientists in Colorado?
Colorado employed approximately 410 forensic science technicians, with steady demand driven by population growth and technological advancements. Competition remains strong for positions, particularly in desirable locations along the Front Range. Specialized skills in digital forensics, DNA analysis, or drug chemistry can significantly enhance employment prospects.
Can I become a forensic scientist with a criminal record?
It depends on the nature and severity of the offense. All positions require extensive background checks. Minor misdemeanors may not disqualify candidates, but felonies, drug offenses, or crimes involving dishonesty typically prevent employment. Each case is evaluated individually, considering factors such as the time elapsed and rehabilitation evidence.
What’s the difference between a forensic scientist and a CSI?
Crime scene investigators primarily work at crime scenes, collecting and documenting evidence, while forensic scientists analyze evidence in laboratory settings. Some positions combine both roles, particularly in smaller agencies. Educational requirements overlap, although CSI positions may emphasize criminal justice, while forensic scientists require stronger science backgrounds.
Do forensic scientists in Colorado have to testify in court?
Yes, court testimony is a fundamental job requirement. Forensic scientists must explain complex scientific analyses to judges and juries in understandable terms. Training programs include courtroom testimony preparation, and most scientists testify several times annually. Strong communication skills prove essential for career success.
Is certification required to work as a forensic scientist in Colorado?
Colorado doesn’t mandate specific certifications, but many employers prefer or require professional certification within specified timeframes after hiring. The American Board of Criminalistics certification has become increasingly standard. Specialized disciplines may require specific certifications for court qualification or leadership roles in technical fields.
What skills are most important for forensic science careers?
Critical skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, written and verbal communication, integrity, and patience. Technical skills in chemistry, biology, and instrumentation are essential. Successful forensic scientists also demonstrate teamwork, time management, and the ability to maintain objectivity under pressure.
Can I specialize in a specific area of forensic science?
Yes, most forensic scientists eventually specialize in disciplines like DNA analysis, drug chemistry, firearms examination, or digital forensics. Specialization typically occurs after gaining general experience. Some educational programs offer concentrated training in specific areas, providing early opportunities for specialization and career development.
Key Takeaways
Colorado offers excellent opportunities for careers in forensic science, with competitive salaries ranging from $59,400 for entry-level positions to over $103,000 for senior scientists. The state’s five CBI laboratories and numerous local crime labs provide diverse employment options across urban and rural settings.
Success typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, preferably from a program that offers coursework specific to forensic studies. Colorado State University’s criminalistics concentration and CU Denver’s graduate programs represent top educational choices. Hands-on laboratory experience, gained through internships or research projects, proves essential for competitive applications.
The field demands continuous learning, with emerging areas like digital forensics and cannabis testing creating new opportunities. Professional certification through organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics enhances career prospects and earning potential.
Whether you’re drawn to DNA analysis, drug chemistry, firearms examination, or trace evidence, Colorado’s forensic science community offers rewarding careers combining scientific expertise with criminal justice service. Start your journey today by researching educational programs and connecting with professionals in this dynamic field.
Ready to start your forensic science career in Colorado? Find accredited programs that match your goals and location preferences with our school search tool below.
